Back to school season is here! The first day of school is an exciting time for both kids and parents. It’s also the perfect time to get the cameras and smart phones ready to capture this special day. To help get your photos Facebook and Instagram reasdy I’ve put together my 5 best tips for taking a great back-to-school photo. I’ve also added links to my favourite back to school free printables. Let’s get snapping!

Tip 1 Schedule time for photos.

There’s always a lot going on the morning of the first day of school. Lunches are being made, bags are being packed and the perfect outfit is ready and waiting. To ensure you have time to capture the perfect photo, schedule 10 – 15 minutes. This will help avoid the last minute scrambles. Taking photos should be fun and not rushed or stressful.

Tip 2. Choose the right lighting.

I love natural lighting! If weather permits get outside and have your kids pose by the front door or even on the sidewalk. Natural light makes a huge difference and it creates a bright and cheerful photo of your little ones. If you are taking your photos indoors, try and make sure you are by a large window or sliding glass door. The more light the better. Try and have your back to the window and make sure your child is facing it.

Tip 3. Change your angle

When you’re taking photos of your kids don’t be afraid to move around! Have fun with different perspectives. Shoot from the front and capture their new outfit. Shoot from the back and get a shot of their backpack. All of the little details are part of their back-to-school story too.

Tip 4: Use the rule of thirds

The rule of thirds is a basic photography technique. It’s all about positioning your subjects slightly off to one side, above, or below. If you can, try to avoid having your kids in the centre of the frame. By simply using the rule of thirds your photos will be more interesting. To learn more about rule of thirds check out my post 5 tips to help you take better pictures with your smartphone

Tip 5. Don’t say cheese!

If your kids are anything like mine, the moment I tell them to say cheese they stop smiling. Or, they force a smile that isn’t natural. Instead of getting a forced smile or unnatural pose, just start talking. Ask them about school, or about their favourite activity they did this summer. Get them laughing and smiling and before you know it you’ve captured beautiful memories that you’ll look back on often!

Bonus tip:

Don’t forget to be in the photos!

You’re also a part of their special day so don’t forget to snap some photos with you in them! From hugs to high fives, you’ve been there for all their firsts. This is another one that you don’t want to miss.

Most importantly have fun! Below are a few of my favourite back-to-school free printables. Snap a photo of your kids holding their respective years!